Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Westlife song tribute to Shane’s mum, Mae Band play two biggest hits as they rally round friend
YESTERDAY
WESTLIFE gave Shane Filan’s mother Mae a musical send off as they celebrated her life yesterday.
The band took to the altar for the service at St Anne’s Church in Sligo and performed two of their biggest hits.
The funeral Mass opened with Shane, Mark, Kian and Nicky singing Flying Without Wings and finished with You Raise Me Up.
All three bandmates hugged the 40-yearold as he fought back tears following the emotional performance.
Shane, who carried his mother’s coffin, remained composed for the service.
The packed congregation was treated to a celebration of Mae’s life and an uplifting eulogy delivered by Shane’s brother Finbarr.
Halfway through the service, several of Mae’s 22 grandchildren also sang for the family.
A number of security guards kept watch at the front of the church, however, the singer’s wish for privacy was respected by Westlife fans.
A pal told the Mirror yesterday: “It was a wonderful send-off for a very special woman.
“It was uplifting and it was a celebration of her life which is what Shane wanted.
“Louis Walsh was there and it was a real Westlife family moment.”
Shane was supported by his wife Gillian and the pair shared a kiss at one stage.
Mae died peacefully on Sunday after a brief illness, surrounded by Shane, her husband Peter and her loved ones.
Her remains lay in repose at the family home in Carrowroe, Co Sligo.
Shane said the day of his mum’s death was the “saddest day” of his life.